Autism Awareness Day

The animal care staff will be on hand to provide special Zoo Chats. At 11 a.m. and noon,  head to the Swan Pavilion to see a red-tailed hawk and Eurasian lynx. In Hamill Family Play Zoo, there will be a Zoo Chat about a boa constrictor at 1 p.m. Also, joining in the activities will be representatives from Autism Speaks, who will have booths set up at both the zoo's north and south gates distributing information and answering questions. Throughout the day, there will be special activities for families who have children on the autism spectrum. Youngsters can participate in a craft activity at the Hamill Family Play Zoo. The zoo's Carousel will feature a quiet hour from 11 a.m.-noon, which will allow families to ride the popular attraction without loud music. In addition, at 1 p.m., there will be a sensory-friendly Dolphins In Action presentation. And, there will be a designated area in the Riverside Room, located in the lower level of BZ Red Hots, where families can go for some quiet time. The water in the zoo's Roosevelt Fountain will be dyed blue and there will be blue flags decorating the park's grounds.

Event Cost: Free with zoo admission

Price Category: $

Event times: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.